Jacó Beach vs Tamarindo: Which Costa Rica Beach Town is Right for You?

By Silvanna Pacheco, February 4th, 2026

Whether you are landing at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) or Liberia International Airport (LIR), the call of the Pacific Coast is undeniable. For travelers seeking the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation, the choice often comes down to two regions: Central Pacific (Jacó Beach) and the North Pacific (Tamarindo). While both are world-class surf destinations, they offer different experiences. Let us help you navigate these coastal gems, understand their unique “personalities”, and show you how they fit into your Costa Rican itinerary.

Jacó Beach: Surf Town where urban meets the jungle

Jacó Beach is located only a two-hour drive from San José, making it the most accessible beach destination in the country. It possesses an urban-meets-jungle vibe that is perfect for those who want a “city feel” without giving up the natural beauty of the tropics.

Jacó features high-rise condos, a paved main strip, and a high concentration of restaurants, shops, casinos, and high-energy nightlife. For digital nomads and short-term visitors, the town offers the most reliable high-speed internet and amenities on the Pacific coast.

But what makes Jacó a great destination is its proximity to world-class adventure. Within 15 minutes of the town center, you can be deep in the rainforest on an ATV mountain tour, zip lining through the canopy, or canyoning down waterfalls. The sand is dark and mineral-rich. Because of its volcanic nature, it reflects the sunset beautifully but gets very hot under the midday sun. The beach is long and wide, perfect for a morning jog.

Jacó’s location on the edge of the rainforest provides easy access to the Carara National Park, a transition zone between dry and humid forests and a hot spot to see Scarlet Macaws.

Jacó is also a major surf town with consistent, strong breaks great for intermediate surfers. Nearby, just 10 minutes away, is Playa Hermosa, a “World Surfing Reserve.” It’s strictly for experts and pros, offering some of the most powerful and consistent beach breaks in Central America.

This town is built around the sport. The main strip is lined with surf shops, board rentals, and repair shacks. It’s the kind of place where you’ll see locals biking to the beach with boards under their arms at sunrise. The nightlife and “surf-chill” dining scene make it a social hub where travelers swap stories over craft beers after a sunset session.

For an itinerary, Jacó is the perfect midpoint if you are traveling between the Arenal Volcano area and Manuel Antonio National Park. It works for 2 or 3 days of rainforest adventure activities before moving to more “pristine” or quiet nature destinations.

Tamarindo Beach: A premier wellness destination

Heading north into the Guanacaste province,you will find Tamarindo Beach, a “tropical chic” destination, popular with North American and European expatriates who have helped shape it into a polished boutique hotel town.

Located just one hour from Liberia International Airport (LIR), Tamarindo is very convenient for international travelers. It serves as a basecamp for exploring northern gems like the white sands of Playa Conchal and the natural wonders of Rincón de la Vieja National Park.

Tamarindo is often considered more sophisticated than Jacó, leaning into ‘lifestyle’ travel. Here, you will find numerous boutique hotels and fine-dining options owned by international chefs. The town has branded itself as a premier wellness destination where visitors arrive for week-long immersions in yoga and pilates and paired these with high-end spa treatments. Its light, golden-hued sands and clear waters makes it feel like a pristine sanctuary. The wide, crescent-shaped bay is great for sunbathing and sunrise strolls. Sunsets are legendary at this beach. A personalized beach getaway can be planned just for you.

Tamarindo is also known as one of the best places to take the first surfing lesson. The waves within the bay are gentle and long, providing a safe environment for beginners. For seasoned surfers seeking a challenge, the town serves as a launchpad for boat trips to the legendary Witch’s Rock, where offshore winds and powerful swells create world-class conditions.

Beyond the surf, Tamarindo is part of the Las Baulas National Marine Park, a critical nesting site for the endangered Leatherback sea turtle. The town is bordered by estuaries where you can trade your surfboard for a kayak. These calm mangrove forests offer a peaceful way to spot wildlife, including howler monkeys, iguanas, and crocodiles.

Tamarindo is an excellent choice for either the beginning or the end of your itinerary, depending on your arrival at the airport. From the Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José is a 4-hour drive. Most visitors find that a 4 to 5 day stay is ideal to take advantage of all the adventure activities in the surrounding area and enjoy a relaxing time at the beach.

The Dry vs. The Green

Understanding the regional climates is essential for planning. Guanacaste is the driest region of the country, while the Central Pacific remains lush and humid.

During the Dry Season (December – April), you can expect 100% sunshine and blue skies. Tamarindo becomes arid and dusty, with temperatures often hitting 35°C (95°F) while Jacó stays a bit greener but remains very hot. Dry Season is also known as High Season, you can expect the highest prices and largest crowds, especially during Christmas and Semana Santa (Easter). For this time of year we recommend booking your accommodations at least three months in advance.

The Green Season (May – November) is the transition period where the landscape turns a brilliant, vibrant green. You will typically experience sunny mornings followed by a brief, refreshing afternoon shower. Prices for hotels drop significantly, and the towns are much quieter. This is known also as the Low Season.

September and October are the rainiest months. While Tamarindo beach receives less rainfall than Jacó due to its northern location, many businesses take their annual “maintenance break” during this time, so some restaurants may be closed. Our expert travel advisors will help you plan the perfect getaway any time of the year.

Both towns offer a unique slice of the Pura Vida lifestyle. Whichever you choose, the Pacific coast of Costa Rica promises an unforgettable journey.

Jacó Beach vs Tamarindo: Which Costa Rica Beach Town is Right for You?

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